December 16

December 16

READ

Luke 1:46-55

DEVOTION

Mary was so young when she was visited by an angel and told she would bear a child. I would have been freaking out and I am over twice her age! My anxiety would have been through the roof. But not Mary. She accepted what the angel said and praised the Lord in this beautiful passage. She believed what the Lord would do.

Too often we equate joy with happiness. We think we will be joyful if this thing happens for us. But joy is not circumstantial. Honestly, who knows how Mary felt. If she was happy or nervous or worried. We do know she was filled with joy and rejoiced. Joy comes from knowing that God is in control. That He loves you and will guide you. It is that overwhelming feeling that you are known and seen by the Creator of the world!

Joy leads to thanksgiving! Mary’s joy upon seeing her cousin Elizabeth as proof of what the angel said immediately leads to this song of praise. Mary says she was looked upon with favor as a humble servant (as did the angel). Her circumstances were likely scary and overwhelming, but still she rejoiced at who God is and what He was doing!

Take some time today and write your own song of praise to the Mighty One! Let the joy of the Lord overflow as you write of His goodness and favor upon you. Even if life feels hard, you can have joy in the knowledge that the Savior’s work is finished and His love for you is complete!

REFLECT

Have you been equating joy with happiness (circumstances)? What are three things you can immediately praise God for today?

PRAY

Dear Heavenly Father,

I know that you are the Mighty One! My soul magnifies You! Thank you for Mary’s example and for finding favor in those who are humble servants. Help that to be true of me today and everyday. I praise You and thank You!